Mike Burke was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on October 13, 1956. He emigrated to Canada with his family at an early age. While studying at York University Mike was picked for the Ontario University Athletics All-Stars First Team in 1977 and 1978.
The 6’1″ and 175 lbs forward first made his mark with First Portuguese in the National Soccer League in the 1977 season. He moved to Toronto Italia before the start of the 1978 National Soccer League season. He scored 15 league goals as Italia finished fifth in the 11-team league.
Mike was the leading goalscorer in the National Soccer League in the 1980 season with 24 goals during the regular season. His team Toronto Italia finished in third place in the final standings in the 1980 National Soccer League standings.
On October 1, 1980, Mike signed for Major Indoor Soccer League club Buffalo Stallions. He played in twelve MISL games and scored one goal while with the Stallions.